Hi Chad, Nelson here from the Keys. I have the side cameras and although I don't need them to make a lane change, I found that where these cameras shine is when you are backing up blind side. When you loose the side of your trailer in your mirror because of your backup angle, you can just look at your camera and see the entire side of the trailer again. That to me was worth it. I hope this makes sense and helps with your decision.
What Nelson said. We have a 42' Montana and really the only time I use the side cameras is when I am backing in so I can see my blind spot(s). They came in real handy parking at a KOA in Tucson last Christmas trying to park at night.
We just switched from Furrion to the Haloview with the side and rear cameras. We ran ours on permanent 12v with a toggle switch so they can double as our security cameras. I love the record feature, I think that's where the side cameras are great in case we are ever in an accident. Just finished our 1st trip from Fort Myers to Cherokee and it worked flawlessly.
I have the Furrion system and have the side cameras. Love them for blind side backing. Parking the camper by myself (and even with the family) the side cameras make it so much easier and gives you the ability to keep track of what is there. I have my kids help me with setup and I can keep an eye on whoever is on the blind side if I have to move the camper. Huge plus as a safety feature there.
I wired my camera to a switch by the door so I could use it for a rear security camera while parked as well as a rear view while driving. I put a power plug in the camper to use on the monitor. I wrapped the extra cable around my ac and mounted the antenna on the outside metal of the ac just under the plastic cover to protect it from tree limbs. Works great.
I have 4 Xroose cameras connected to a 7-inch monitor. 1 in back of the Trailer, 1 on each side at front near a clearance light and I mounted one to a magnet that I use to hitch up my truck that doesn't have a backup camera. I stick this camera up a bit on the tailgate to get a downward view of the hitch and remove it as soon as I am done. It is powered with a spare 7-way connector that I just plug into the 7-way outlet of the truck using the clearance light wire for power. I am often backing the trailer by myself, and the 3 cameras help avoid hitting obstacles especially when at sharp angles. I appreciate the extra view when in a parking lot as well. You can view 1 camera or several combinations. When traveling in the mountains, it's nice to know how many cars are wanting to get around you.
We love our vision works back up camera. Our brand new unit the monitor went blank so we called customer service and they replaced it no charge. A year later we broke the antenna on the monitor and called customer service again. We bought a new antenna and they shipped it next day we had it. I can’t speak enough about the great customer service this company provides!
We have a much smaller rig than yours and while it is certainly nice to have a camera for backing up, we use our camera mostly as an electronic rear view mirror. It is always great when you can see what is directly behind you while on the road!
I have the left and right side cameras and I love them. It’s just a little extra piece of mind knowing I can see complete sides. I bought a 4th camera that is mounted on the back of my 5th wheel and pointed straight down to my 2 ebikes. The main backup camera is aimed 60 feet back and gives me more of a full view of everything behind me up to 200 ft. Easy to install AFTER your spend 5 hours trying to figure out WHY you cannot get power to the cameras once hooked up..then you remember to turn on your headlights!! YES 5 HOURS!! Some of us have to learn lessons the hard way :)
We have the haloview 7 with marker light cameras, Also needed the repeater for the rear camera. side marker cameras are nice to have. another one of those things that you don't know what you don't see till you see it. We pull a 42 foot toyhauler fifth wheel with our ram. A lot of times off roads we probably shouldn't, but can see down the sides with out turning to look at the mirror in tight situations.
We bought the VisionWorks camera from TechnoRV with a larger monitor than yours. No side-mounted cameras. We had excellent service from VisionWorks when our antennae broke. Monitor has excellent clarity but camera occasionally lags and blinks out. Not sure what to do about that. We have a 36 ft Momentum and 2019 F350. Love your clean-looking dash setup! Thanks for another excellent video. Cheers to you both!
Thanks for your videos. My Furrion I made a bracket that fits over my rear view mirror and my Furrion monitor is on my rear view mirror. Anyway if the camera manufacturer can make their monitor fit onto the rear view mirror since the rear view is basically dead once the trailer is hitched
Hi Chad, I greatly love your video, I didn't use vision works cameras, but I am using the Haloview camera system BTHandy7 on the rear of my caravan, it doesn't require hardwiring the camera due to it is a camera with a battery pack, and it has a perfect view of what's behind me and for hitching up without the need for guidance plus the resolution is so good I can watch butterfly dancing in my garden as the range is very good.
The camera I found very useful was my front grill cam. Gave me so much more awareness on driving my line to get in places when my guide is somewhere else or on the other side
We have Haloview system with the side marker cameras. The side views have come in handy in Dallas and El Paso traffic as well as the Port Aransas TX ferry. Also, I chose to power my cameras only with the 7 way pig tail plugged into the tow vehicle. Just had to add a blocking diode between the gen start/brake controller batt in the front compartment. We have a 397th similar to your old rig
I have the side cameras, marker light versions. I love them, especially when you're backing blind side, or if there's a car beside you that only you can see, but you REALLY want more than your eyes on.
On our class A, we had a rear view camera and side view cameras. When we turned on a signal, half the screen was that side camera displayed. That was awesome because our factory mirrors didn't have convex mirrors. Worked great. On our new fifth wheel, we have only the rear. The ford mirrors do a great job of showing me the sides. I really only use the rear camera for backing up.
We have a swivel wheel trailer on the back of our 5th wheel and our rear camera is great. Since we carry more than the Harley on the trailer it's good to keep track of everything. When we pull in somewhere at night i always unplug the 7wire from truck. If something goes wrong the truck has full batteries and it will start. Just saying. Travel safe Robert Woods.
I had the side marker lights on my travel trailer when I had my F150 and they were very helpful, but since I have upgraded the tow rig to a F350, I didn't get the side marker cameras for the new 5th wheel, just the rear camera. I find the convex mirrors do the same job that the cameras did. In backing by yourself or even with a helper they did help immensely. Just wish the cameras could all be tied into the Ford monitor so it would be one less thing on the dash.
Chad, I’ve got the Furrion side marker cams. I hardly use them but they can be wired so that when you hit the left blinker, the display will automatically switch to the left marker light… and same for the right blinker. I agree with you though about the side mirrors. They’re great on the Ford. If I’m parking the RV by myself or I’m somewhere without the wife to help guide me… I’ll use the side marker cams. So they’re not bad to have just in case but not necessary by any stretch of the imagination.
I have the Furrion system on my rig and the side markers on it are pretty much useless for backing because they aren't adjustable for angle. They point too far out and don't include much (if any) of the side of the trailer in the image. The only real use I have for them is if I need a quick view of the blind side of the trailer on a back in.
We have the GD2979RL and decided to go with the side marker cameras on this our 6th Rv. These have really been a game changer for us. Not only does it make changing lanes safer and backing in tight spots easier, but I find it helps greatly when making tight turns in gas stations and parking areas. They are well worth the addition, especially on a longer rig. Love your videos!
We have a smaller TT and love our Halo rear view camera. Very crisp and clear. We do not have the side cameras. Love it as a rear view mirror too. Since I have a towable, I also have a hitch camera which I use for all my trailers.
Hey Chad, We bought the Furrion camera System for our 44 fr fifth wheel with rear and side cameras. Truthfully, I only use the rear cam. The mirrors do a good job reaching the sides.
The side mounted cameras are really a plus when backing the trailer also they help cover the blind spots. I drove an ambulance that had side, rear, and front mounted cameras the side and rear cameras were a big help in covering blind spots . Especially near the top in being able to see tree limbs and low hanging wires that were not visible in the mirrors. I am planning to put side and rear cameras on my work and play that I am building. Thanks for the tip on wiring them to the marker lights.
We have a 48’ 5ver and have the side cameras on the forward marker lights. We boondock a lot and find them very useful for going down the sometimes narrow dirt/gravel roads to safely gauge the distance off the trees and bushes in addition to utilizing the mirrors. Also, when going down a 2 lane road, I find it vereeee useful to assist in staying as far right as safely possible to avoid having the coach on, or crossing into the other lane while bending or turning left on the winding roads to avoid a potential mishap with a vehicle traveling in the other direction. Me, being in the drivers seat can be a bit deceptive on actually how close you actually are to the edge of the road - it seems closer. So, knowing that you can get over to the right a couple more feet or so, is a game changer on those roads. Of course, I use my mirrors, but the extra set of eyes (cameras) are gooood peace of mind!! 👍😃🍻
We have the Furrion with the side markers and to be honest don't use the side camers very often. Like you, we monitor the rear while driving down the road.
Chad, we our love cameras. We have rear and side marker cameras and a truck bed camera for hitching up our Reese goosebox hitch. We love having side marker cameras!
Hi Chad, Skeeter from Louisiana, we have side marker cameras with our system along with the garage. We like the side marker lights for lane changes and for the backing blind spot. Also since we are new to RVing and towing added safety on the 395.
That camera's picture quality looks nice! You asked about the side marker light cameras... I installed them on our 35' Reflection and I have not found them useful once. The F350 truck mirrors totally cover it while driving like you said, and when you're trying to back in they don't have a good angle to help you much.
Hi Guy's, we have The visionworks system from Techno Rv for the last year. Side camera's are great for what some others mentioned when your mirror angle is out of view you have a straight view down the side, especially some of those right turns. Plus all three are recording. We pull ours from truck when we setup to use as a security camera in the bedroom. Perfect use of ac adapter. Glad you tried it we love it.
If you get the 4th camera glue magnets on the back of it and get a heavy L bracket and put it on top of your tool box to assist you in backing to hitch up. I didn’t know if your ford has the 3rd brake light with camera up high. My duramax doesn’t. So that’s how I can see better. Now if you want better reception the Haloview BT7 ultimate can send a signal up to 900’. Check it out. Thx Chad and Tara
Awesome video! We have the HaloView backup camera as well as the side cameras. While driving we only use the side cameras. Really makes it a better driving experience.
Thanks for the video. We went with the Gen2 Vision Works camera that wires directly into the Furrion pre-mount using a headset looking jack. It's also a bit smaller and has a nice look to it. We went with the 7" screen as we decided to also add the side marker cameras. I installed the rear camera myself but since we had an appointment with the dealer for something else, we're going to have them install the side marker cameras and the roof antenna. We also went with the Bullet Mounting Solutions dash mount system for our GMC to mount our screens (TPMS, RV GPS, and VisionWorks)
Get the side cameras! Not essential, rear is most important, but very helpful. They are worth it. I tow a big Momentum 381, 44', alone, so I don't have a spotter when backing.
Our camera is powered by a switched 12V source from the camper so we can monitor what's going on from inside the RV at night. Highly recommend, just need to locate a source from inside the camper (or run a new set of wires) and mount a switch. I prefer to solder wires, but that's a skill most don't have.
I had a connection issue with my new Furrion Vision S camera. Worked fine while hard wired, but no signal from the back of fifth wheel. Furrion recommended a power management dongle that goes between 7 pin of trailer and truck. Worked perfectly. Issue is computer power management of newer trucks does not deliver the necessary power to the camera.
I loved the video and had the haloview 7" monitor on top of my dash. However, I am now using the Ford auxiliary camera on the rear of the 5th wheel to see it on the huge Ford 12" oem monitor, so no more additional screens for me. My haloview wireless camera froze up or went dark from time to time. You should contact Ford to see if they would sponsor a camera you could review for them!
I appreciate your instructions in this video, Im installing a back up an RV back up camera and monitor. Very helpful! I don't have a furrow system like yours but I think I got it figured out. I will be using my running lights while driving.
We have both the rear camera and the side cameras. Our side view mirrors do not extend that far out so having the cameras on the side is a big plus for us.
I love having my rearview camera on my motorhome on all the time so I can see the Honda pilot being flat towed behind me. And as you say, passing someone you can easily see that you’re completely clear and safe to move back over. Those type of connectors you used I always just throw in the trash if they come with something I bought. L O L.
I have 3 cameras, rear and both sides. I love our Viewfinder 7” with 3 camera views…in fact I am getting a 4th to add on that will be aimed at our rear hitch carrying our ebikes and generator. The install could not have been easier and the quality was unmatched with our previous Furrion and DoHonest cameras. I will only have Viewfinder from now on.
I have the Trackform mounting kit (Similar to rammount). I bought a haloview monitor mount that had the proper size ball to use on the AMPS mount arm. Works great and its a good way to keep the dash organized.
We have this system as well as the stock system on our 2017 Newmar motorhome. The rear cam is 1000000% better than the Voyager rear camera and the best thing is that all the VisionWorks cameras are always on. We also have the side cameras from Visionworks. The Voyagers change when you use your turn signals so I can’t see what my TOAD is doing if I put my turn signal on when I turn. The side cameras are most valuable for checking the “cut point” when I am backing up and I have to believe they’d be even more valuable with a 5th wheel.
I have the VisionWorks camera system, recommended by TechnoRV. I have the rear observation camera, and the side marker cameras. It’s amazing, especially when backing up by myself!
My vision works cut out more than my furrion, but I didn’t have the antenna cable. The big problem for me was the view angle was so much smaller than the furrion. I want to be able to see the bumper of the trailer for backing up and see cars behind me too. The vision works just was to “zoomed” in for that. But the image quality when it worked was much better than the furrion.
The antennae extension is definitely needed. Without the extension the image would come and go and was about 2 seconds behind real time before it appeared on the screen. The side cameras are nice, especially when backing since I am a solo rv'er. My only problem using them while driving was that one would be in the sun and the other in the shade. The sun side would look great, but the shade side was so dark it was hard to see what was in view. I never solved that problem before I traded in my 395MS.
Mounting a 2nd camera on the front of the camper gives great overall visibility showing the truck relative to surrounding traffic. I just wish we could record the front (or front + rear) and only show the rear on the display. Showing both distorts the image.
I have sideview cameras on my rig and frankly they're useless. As far as I know they only activate with the blinker and I've found that they don't show anything I don't see in my mirrors and they are too slow to activate. Thanks for the link to the RAM mount stuff in the linked video. I've been looking to find that stuff on the RAM site and I couldn't. Now I've got is saved for future ordering. Keep the good stuff coming.
I have the Furion system with the two side camera and the rear. I really get value out of the side cameras. I like them for a second view with lane changes and when parking it gives a closer view than my concave/convex mirror. My system also lets me take the monitor inside the RV and use it as a security monitor while at a stop.
On the monitor for our rig, I use small bungee cords to attach it to the rear view mirror. This does leave a wire hanging down from the mirror to where is plugs into the cigar lighter on top of the dash, but so far that hasn’t been a big deal for me. I’m sure it could be wired into some other 12V that would be in the headliner, for example. (At any rate, when most folks note I am bungee cording the monitor to the mirror, they know why the wire hanging down doesn’t bother me. They are small bungee cords and are barely noticeable!)
One hundred percent agree with rear view camera wired into marker lights, by the way. New Minnie Winnie had the camera wired into the 12V trailer. Changed it right away.
I have the side cameras and have never used them. I thought they’d be useful when backing but the mirrors are better. The rear view is great and works for all things I’ve needed - with only 18 months fulltime experience
I use the side cameras more for security than driving. Where the side marker cameras really shine is when backing or turning and that side of the trailer is out of sight of the mirrors.
We have a 31' class C that has the side cameras in the mirrors. I never use them. Like you I have great visibility with the mirrors. I find looking out the mirrors then shifting my gaze to the monitor more of a distraction.
Great video, Chad. This looks like pretty straightforward install. I like the idea to get power from running lights instead of on board batteries. It would be nice if all accessories used standard mounting fixtures, sure would make life easier. I guess that's a bit of a fantasy. LOL God bless ya'll and stay safe on your travels.
I have the side marker lights cameras and personally I don’t use them as much as I thought I would. I do have side cameras on my truck that I use more. The side marker lights are beneficial with turning and watching for “tail spin”.
Chad, there was a company out of Canada that made cameras for big rides. They are all 4 corners of the truck and trailer. One scren to get all of them. If there was an problem. GPS will show where you are. Keep 7 days worth
I had side cameras for my 41ft GD 367BHS and never used them. I actually see better with my Ford towing mirrors. So, I ended up taking them off and giving them to my bro in law... I kept the backup camera though 😉
Great review! I definitely like the side mirrors for backing up as I usually lose the area behind the RV when the truck is at angle; especially the opposite side.
I bought the furrion 3 camera system about 2 years ago. It only really came in handy a few times. The majority of the time it was annoying. If I get another camera I'll only use the backup camera.
Another great video Chad. We also have the rear and both side cameras on our 36 ft. 5th wheel. Like the others have stated, when I'm backing around a blind corner ,It's great to be able to see what's over on the side of the rig. Hope this helps. Continued safe travels.
I have a Visionworks camera from Techno RV. Works great. The camera runs off trailer power that is pre wired . There is a switch on the control panel to turn camera power on/off on my Alliance 5th wheel.
As usual, Chad covers the product and process professionally and in depth. I do have a question... I store my camper indoors between trips. Backing in is tedious. 10 foot wide door, 50 foot long storage area, but like backing into a black hole using the side mirrors. What is the night, or low light capabilities of the Vision Works? I'm loving the use for towing, and also hoping I can figure out a way to mount another wireless cam on the 3rd brake light (F350) and toggle between the trailer rear and fifth wheel hitch cams to see for hitching and towing... Comments? Love Chad and Tara, always good advice, and have made my RV life so much easier and more relaxing!
We almost never tow or back at night, so I really can't say. I will say that the thing has a ton of infrared LEDs on it, so I bet it's pretty good. Our new RV has lights on the rear and both sides at the rear to illuminate when in reverse. But, we've never used it.
I like my side cameras since I record all of my camera footage. If anyone ever runs into the side of my 37 foot camper (happened to my friend), the side camera will record that.
I got spoiled really quick to the rear view camera on my DP. The only issue I've got now is that my camera is getting old so acts up and doesn't show a clear image part of the time, but it still allows me to see what's back there, so I couldn't imagine not having it back there.
hey all. i purchased the visionworks from TechnoRV a couple years ago. Very disappointed. The video was very choppy. Called TechnoRV and their service was great. Put me in touch with VW directly and received the antennae extension. It did help a little, but it is still choppy. I am not sure i will get the side marker cameras which was my final goal.
I can see where the side cameras would not really be needed going down the road I'm like you I uses my mirrors to drive with. That being said I can see where the side cameras would be great backing in a tight spot where you can see Tara at all times and you can see the picnic table before it jumps out and hits your trailer
I had the side marker light cameras on my 33’ Reflection. I found the images on my 7” screen with all 3 cameras, too small to be useful. It wasn’t convenient to move camera to camera while backing, I ended up using the rear camera only.
Ordered the “customer install” wired camera when I ordered my 2023 F250. It also has the TPMS. I did not want multiple screens on my dash, the 12” screen in the dash is enough on the dash.
I have the other brand rear camera and have mine tilted down so i can see my spare tire. I can see how close I am to something when backing up and still see cars coming up on me.
Great timing. I’m currently attempting to get the camera that came on our GD to work. It’s suppose to work with the Lippert OneTouch system but so far I can’t get it to work. You asked about the side view cameras. Our GMC came with those which automatically come on with my turn signal. I think they are great but I would not order special just for the trailer. In other words they are a nice to have, not a need to have. Thanks for the great video!
I feel your pain. Our GD factory-wired rear camera was a great selling point, but we, too, have had lots of problems (even with Lippert support calls) to get it going and keep it displayed on our phones via nlue tooth pairing. It should mot be so difficult, Lippert!! Maybe we will switch it out for the system Chad showed here....THANK YOU, Changing Lanes, for all your great RV content!!!
Maybe it’s just a matter of getting used to having a camera running as I’m driving but i generally find it distracting. Just like having the GPS or maps going all the time. Especially when it’s on birds eye. Mine only runs with my lights on, which I agree is a good setup.
I drive a 44' Class A diesel pusher towing a jeep or a trailer and love having my rear view and side view cameras but even with 3 cameras and 6 mirrors a little toyota found and hung out in a teeny tiny blind spot....moral of the story is don't get complacent and turn your head before changing lanes.
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Hi Chad, Nelson here from the Keys. I have the side cameras and although I don't need them to make a lane change, I found that where these cameras shine is when you are backing up blind side. When you loose the side of your trailer in your mirror because of your backup angle, you can just look at your camera and see the entire side of the trailer again. That to me was worth it. I hope this makes sense and helps with your decision.
What Nelson said. We have a 42' Montana and really the only time I use the side cameras is when I am backing in so I can see my blind spot(s). They came in real handy parking at a KOA in Tucson last Christmas trying to park at night.
We just switched from Furrion to the Haloview with the side and rear cameras. We ran ours on permanent 12v with a toggle switch so they can double as our security cameras. I love the record feature, I think that's where the side cameras are great in case we are ever in an accident. Just finished our 1st trip from Fort Myers to Cherokee and it worked flawlessly.
I have the Furrion system and have the side cameras. Love them for blind side backing. Parking the camper by myself (and even with the family) the side cameras make it so much easier and gives you the ability to keep track of what is there. I have my kids help me with setup and I can keep an eye on whoever is on the blind side if I have to move the camper. Huge plus as a safety feature there.
I'm so glad you mentioned about the importance of traveling with the headlights on, not for you to see, but to make others aware of you.
I wired my camera to a switch by the door so I could use it for a rear security camera while parked as well as a rear view while driving. I put a power plug in the camper to use on the monitor. I wrapped the extra cable around my ac and mounted the antenna on the outside metal of the ac just under the plastic cover to protect it from tree limbs. Works great.
I have 4 Xroose cameras connected to a 7-inch monitor. 1 in back of the Trailer, 1 on each side at front near a clearance light and I mounted one to a magnet that I use to hitch up my truck that doesn't have a backup camera. I stick this camera up a bit on the tailgate to get a downward view of the hitch and remove it as soon as I am done. It is powered with a spare 7-way connector that I just plug into the 7-way outlet of the truck using the clearance light wire for power. I am often backing the trailer by myself, and the 3 cameras help avoid hitting obstacles especially when at sharp angles. I appreciate the extra view when in a parking lot as well. You can view 1 camera or several combinations. When traveling in the mountains, it's nice to know how many cars are wanting to get around you.
We love our vision works back up camera. Our brand new unit the monitor went blank so we called customer service and they replaced it no charge. A year later we broke the antenna on the monitor and called customer service again. We bought a new antenna and they shipped it next day we had it. I can’t speak enough about the great customer service this company provides!
Thats great to hear! Thanks for the feedback!
We have a much smaller rig than yours and while it is certainly nice to have a camera for backing up, we use our camera mostly as an electronic rear view mirror. It is always great when you can see what is directly behind you while on the road!
We have the furrion camera but the vision works monitor is really clear!
I installed the Haloview Byte Tango 3-camera system on my 41 foot toyhauler. The installation was easy and the quality of the cameras are awesome.
I have the left and right side cameras and I love them. It’s just a little extra piece of mind knowing I can see complete sides. I bought a 4th camera that is mounted on the back of my 5th wheel and pointed straight down to my 2 ebikes. The main backup camera is aimed 60 feet back and gives me more of a full view of everything behind me up to 200 ft. Easy to install AFTER your spend 5 hours trying to figure out WHY you cannot get power to the cameras once hooked up..then you remember to turn on your headlights!! YES 5 HOURS!! Some of us have to learn lessons the hard way :)
Chad I love when you geek out on your tech!! So enthusiastic about improvements on your rig!! Safety first!!
We have the haloview 7 with marker light cameras, Also needed the repeater for the rear camera. side marker cameras are nice to have. another one of those things that you don't know what you don't see till you see it. We pull a 42 foot toyhauler fifth wheel with our ram. A lot of times off roads we probably shouldn't, but can see down the sides with out turning to look at the mirror in tight situations.
Can't wait for the power protection video. I couldn't help but notice the watchdog box in storage bay.
We bought the VisionWorks camera from TechnoRV with a larger monitor than yours. No side-mounted cameras. We had excellent service from VisionWorks when our antennae broke. Monitor has excellent clarity but camera occasionally lags and blinks out. Not sure what to do about that. We have a 36 ft Momentum and 2019 F350. Love your clean-looking dash setup! Thanks for another excellent video. Cheers to you both!
That antenna extension should fix that lag and drop out issue... I'd give them a call, but Techno should be carrying those soon too. 👍🏼
Thanks for your videos. My Furrion I made a bracket that fits over my rear view mirror and my Furrion monitor is on my rear view mirror. Anyway if the camera manufacturer can make their monitor fit onto the rear view mirror since the rear view is basically dead once the trailer is hitched
Fellow RUclipsr here... cant thank you enough for this video. Amen to Ram balls!
Great Review. I have a haloview camera like it.
Hi Chad, I greatly love your video, I didn't use vision works cameras, but I am using the Haloview camera system BTHandy7 on the rear of my caravan, it doesn't require hardwiring the camera due to it is a camera with a battery pack, and it has a perfect view of what's behind me and for hitching up without the need for guidance plus the resolution is so good I can watch butterfly dancing in my garden as the range is very good.
Love all the technically stuff - waiting for a self driving RV next lol!
Thanks Chad ... I just received my camera this week ... Techno RV is great.
The camera I found very useful was my front grill cam. Gave me so much more awareness on driving my line to get in places when my guide is somewhere else or on the other side
We have Haloview system with the side marker cameras. The side views have come in handy in Dallas and El Paso traffic as well as the Port Aransas TX ferry. Also, I chose to power my cameras only with the 7 way pig tail plugged into the tow vehicle. Just had to add a blocking diode between the gen start/brake controller batt in the front compartment. We have a 397th similar to your old rig
We use the haloview 3 camera setup, rear and side views, and display all three at one time when towing.
I have the side cameras, marker light versions. I love them, especially when you're backing blind side, or if there's a car beside you that only you can see, but you REALLY want more than your eyes on.
On our class A, we had a rear view camera and side view cameras. When we turned on a signal, half the screen was that side camera displayed. That was awesome because our factory mirrors didn't have convex mirrors. Worked great. On our new fifth wheel, we have only the rear. The ford mirrors do a great job of showing me the sides. I really only use the rear camera for backing up.
We have a swivel wheel trailer on the back of our 5th wheel and our rear camera is great. Since we carry more than the Harley on the trailer it's good to keep track of everything. When we pull in somewhere at night i always unplug the 7wire from truck. If something goes wrong the truck has full batteries and it will start. Just saying. Travel safe Robert Woods.
I had the side marker lights on my travel trailer when I had my F150 and they were very helpful, but since I have upgraded the tow rig to a F350, I didn't get the side marker cameras for the new 5th wheel, just the rear camera. I find the convex mirrors do the same job that the cameras did. In backing by yourself or even with a helper they did help immensely. Just wish the cameras could all be tied into the Ford monitor so it would be one less thing on the dash.
On the 2024 f250, when you put your blinkers on while towing. your factory screen shows the side that you have on. Just like the big rigs.
I like my Haloview Bt7.
Chad, I’ve got the Furrion side marker cams. I hardly use them but they can be wired so that when you hit the left blinker, the display will automatically switch to the left marker light… and same for the right blinker. I agree with you though about the side mirrors. They’re great on the Ford. If I’m parking the RV by myself or I’m somewhere without the wife to help guide me… I’ll use the side marker cams. So they’re not bad to have just in case but not necessary by any stretch of the imagination.
Love our side cameras they help blind spots when backing.
I have the Furrion system on my rig and the side markers on it are pretty much useless for backing because they aren't adjustable for angle. They point too far out and don't include much (if any) of the side of the trailer in the image. The only real use I have for them is if I need a quick view of the blind side of the trailer on a back in.
I recommend Haloview BT7, the side camera can adjust the angle.
We have the GD2979RL and decided to go with the side marker cameras on this our 6th Rv. These have really been a game changer for us. Not only does it make changing lanes safer and backing in tight spots easier, but I find it helps greatly when making tight turns in gas stations and parking areas. They are well worth the addition, especially on a longer rig. Love your videos!
Agreed
Are these marker light camera wired in junction to the lights.
We have a smaller TT and love our Halo rear view camera. Very crisp and clear. We do not have the side cameras. Love it as a rear view mirror too. Since I have a towable, I also have a hitch camera which I use for all my trailers.
Hey Chad,
We bought the Furrion camera
System for our 44 fr fifth wheel with rear and side cameras. Truthfully, I only use the rear cam. The mirrors do a good job reaching the sides.
The side mounted cameras are really a plus when backing the trailer also they help cover the blind spots. I drove an ambulance that had side, rear, and front mounted cameras the side and rear cameras were a big help in covering blind spots . Especially near the top in being able to see tree limbs and low hanging wires that were not visible in the mirrors. I am planning to put side and rear cameras on my work and play that I am building. Thanks for the tip on wiring them to the marker lights.
We have a 48’ 5ver and have the side cameras on the forward marker lights. We boondock a lot and find them very useful for going down the sometimes narrow dirt/gravel roads to safely gauge the distance off the trees and bushes in addition to utilizing the mirrors. Also, when going down a 2 lane road, I find it vereeee useful to assist in staying as far right as safely possible to avoid having the coach on, or crossing into the other lane while bending or turning left on the winding roads to avoid a potential mishap with a vehicle traveling in the other direction. Me, being in the drivers seat can be a bit deceptive on actually how close you actually are to the edge of the road - it seems closer. So, knowing that you can get over to the right a couple more feet or so, is a game changer on those roads. Of course, I use my mirrors, but the extra set of eyes (cameras) are gooood peace of mind!!
👍😃🍻
If you carry a roll of Eternabond tape, You could use strips of that to hold the wires on the roof.
We have the Furrion with the side markers and to be honest don't use the side camers very often. Like you, we monitor the rear while driving down the road.
Chad, we our love cameras. We have rear and side marker cameras and a truck bed camera for hitching up our Reese goosebox hitch. We love having side marker cameras!
Hi Chad, Skeeter from Louisiana, we have side marker cameras with our system along with the garage. We like the side marker lights for lane changes and for the backing blind spot. Also since we are new to RVing and towing added safety on the 395.
We bought stuff from tammi at hershey couple years back good people. Our rear camera helps me keep an eye on tail swing when in tight spots.
That camera's picture quality looks nice! You asked about the side marker light cameras... I installed them on our 35' Reflection and I have not found them useful once. The F350 truck mirrors totally cover it while driving like you said, and when you're trying to back in they don't have a good angle to help you much.
Hi Guy's, we have The visionworks system from Techno Rv for the last year. Side camera's are great for what some others mentioned when your mirror angle is out of view you have a straight view down the side, especially some of those right turns. Plus all three are recording. We pull ours from truck when we setup to use as a security camera in the bedroom. Perfect use of ac adapter. Glad you tried it we love it.
If you get the 4th camera glue magnets on the back of it and get a heavy L bracket and put it on top of your tool box to assist you in backing to hitch up. I didn’t know if your ford has the 3rd brake light with camera up high. My duramax doesn’t. So that’s how I can see better. Now if you want better reception the Haloview BT7 ultimate can send a signal up to 900’. Check it out. Thx Chad and Tara
Great idea! We do have the bed camera, but it's still difficult to see and judge alignment when hitching.
Awesome video! We have the HaloView backup camera as well as the side cameras. While driving we only use the side cameras. Really makes it a better driving experience.
Thanks for the video. We went with the Gen2 Vision Works camera that wires directly into the Furrion pre-mount using a headset looking jack. It's also a bit smaller and has a nice look to it. We went with the 7" screen as we decided to also add the side marker cameras. I installed the rear camera myself but since we had an appointment with the dealer for something else, we're going to have them install the side marker cameras and the roof antenna.
We also went with the Bullet Mounting Solutions dash mount system for our GMC to mount our screens (TPMS, RV GPS, and VisionWorks)
Get the side cameras! Not essential, rear is most important, but very helpful. They are worth it. I tow a big Momentum 381, 44', alone, so I don't have a spotter when backing.
Our camera is powered by a switched 12V source from the camper so we can monitor what's going on from inside the RV at night. Highly recommend, just need to locate a source from inside the camper (or run a new set of wires) and mount a switch. I prefer to solder wires, but that's a skill most don't have.
I had a connection issue with my new Furrion Vision S camera. Worked fine while hard wired, but no signal from the back of fifth wheel. Furrion recommended a power management dongle that goes between 7 pin of trailer and truck. Worked perfectly. Issue is computer power management of newer trucks does not deliver the necessary power to the camera.
I loved the video and had the haloview 7" monitor on top of my dash. However, I am now using the Ford auxiliary camera on the rear of the 5th wheel to see it on the huge Ford 12" oem monitor, so no more additional screens for me. My haloview wireless camera froze up or went dark from time to time. You should contact Ford to see if they would sponsor a camera you could review for them!
I appreciate your instructions in this video, Im installing a back up an RV back up camera and monitor. Very helpful! I don't have a furrow system like yours but I think I got it figured out. I will be using my running lights while driving.
We have both the rear camera and the side cameras. Our side view mirrors do not extend that far out so having the cameras on the side is a big plus for us.
I love having my rearview camera on my motorhome on all the time so I can see the Honda pilot being flat towed behind me. And as you say, passing someone you can easily see that you’re completely clear and safe to move back over. Those type of connectors you used I always just throw in the trash if they come with something I bought. L O L.
I have 3 cameras, rear and both sides. I love our Viewfinder 7” with 3 camera views…in fact I am getting a 4th to add on that will be aimed at our rear hitch carrying our ebikes and generator. The install could not have been easier and the quality was unmatched with our previous Furrion and DoHonest cameras. I will only have Viewfinder from now on.
I have the Trackform mounting kit (Similar to rammount). I bought a haloview monitor mount that had the proper size ball to use on the AMPS mount arm. Works great and its a good way to keep the dash organized.
This is “omg you are in my head” timely! 😂 Time for a new cam on the back of our fiver, and I was actually staring at this same kit on TechnoRV
We have this system as well as the stock system on our 2017 Newmar motorhome. The rear cam is 1000000% better than the Voyager rear camera and the best thing is that all the VisionWorks cameras are always on. We also have the side cameras from Visionworks. The Voyagers change when you use your turn signals so I can’t see what my TOAD is doing if I put my turn signal on when I turn. The side cameras are most valuable for checking the “cut point” when I am backing up and I have to believe they’d be even more valuable with a 5th wheel.
Thanks for the feedback... I think we may try the side cameras at some point. 😊
I have the VisionWorks camera system, recommended by TechnoRV. I have the rear observation camera, and the side marker cameras. It’s amazing, especially when backing up by myself!
Great video. My Fussion back-up camera just went cloudy/blurry on our most recent trip; therefore, a change (update or replacement) is in order.
My vision works cut out more than my furrion, but I didn’t have the antenna cable. The big problem for me was the view angle was so much smaller than the furrion. I want to be able to see the bumper of the trailer for backing up and see cars behind me too. The vision works just was to “zoomed” in for that. But the image quality when it worked was much better than the furrion.
The antennae extension is definitely needed. Without the extension the image would come and go and was about 2 seconds behind real time before it appeared on the screen. The side cameras are nice, especially when backing since I am a solo rv'er. My only problem using them while driving was that one would be in the sun and the other in the shade. The sun side would look great, but the shade side was so dark it was hard to see what was in view. I never solved that problem before I traded in my 395MS.
Thanks Chad for the video of that camera system , as I was just about to order it, am glad to see your review and thanks for the discount code!!
well i bought a tpms that you recommended(love it!), i've been thinking about a rear camera so this video is perfectly timed, again
Mounting a 2nd camera on the front of the camper gives great overall visibility showing the truck relative to surrounding traffic. I just wish we could record the front (or front + rear) and only show the rear on the display. Showing both distorts the image.
I have sideview cameras on my rig and frankly they're useless. As far as I know they only activate with the blinker and I've found that they don't show anything I don't see in my mirrors and they are too slow to activate. Thanks for the link to the RAM mount stuff in the linked video. I've been looking to find that stuff on the RAM site and I couldn't. Now I've got is saved for future ordering. Keep the good stuff coming.
I have the Furion system with the two side camera and the rear. I really get value out of the side cameras. I like them for a second view with lane changes and when parking it gives a closer view than my concave/convex mirror. My system also lets me take the monitor inside the RV and use it as a security monitor while at a stop.
Thanks for the feedback! 😊 We might have to try the side cameras out.
I have side cameras that I never use. With the new truck, I am just going to use the backup like you did.
On the monitor for our rig, I use small bungee cords to attach it to the rear view mirror. This does leave a wire hanging down from the mirror to where is plugs into the cigar lighter on top of the dash, but so far that hasn’t been a big deal for me. I’m sure it could be wired into some other 12V that would be in the headliner, for example. (At any rate, when most folks note I am bungee cording the monitor to the mirror, they know why the wire hanging down doesn’t bother me. They are small bungee cords and are barely noticeable!)
Interesting... you're used to looking there so that makes sense.. 👍🏼
One hundred percent agree with rear view camera wired into marker lights, by the way. New Minnie Winnie had the camera wired into the 12V trailer. Changed it right away.
I have the side cameras and have never used them. I thought they’d be useful when backing but the mirrors are better. The rear view is great and works for all things I’ve needed - with only 18 months fulltime experience
Did you look at the ford RV camera that is suppose to hook into the 360 trailer assist?
Yes.. but it's not wireless and looks like a pain to wire...
Thanks for the video. We are definitely going to change out ours since the old isn’t working.
I use the side cameras more for security than driving. Where the side marker cameras really shine is when backing or turning and that side of the trailer is out of sight of the mirrors.
We have a 31' class C that has the side cameras in the mirrors. I never use them. Like you I have great visibility with the mirrors. I find looking out the mirrors then shifting my gaze to the monitor more of a distraction.
Great video, Chad. This looks like pretty straightforward install. I like the idea to get power from running lights instead of on board batteries.
It would be nice if all accessories used standard mounting fixtures, sure would make life easier. I guess that's a bit of a fantasy. LOL
God bless ya'll and stay safe on your travels.
My brother was talking about placing a camera to watch the trailer tires, might catch side views also. Good vid., thanks.
I have the side marker lights cameras and personally I don’t use them as much as I thought I would. I do have side cameras on my truck that I use more. The side marker lights are beneficial with turning and watching for “tail spin”.
Tail Spin😅😂
Seems like my Haloview Byte Tango way better than Visionwork in picture quality.
Chad, there was a company out of Canada that made cameras for big rides. They are all 4 corners of the truck and trailer. One scren to get all of them. If there was an problem. GPS will show where you are. Keep 7 days worth
Great video Chad. Debating the side cameras myself for our Class A, just for some reassurance.
I had side cameras for my 41ft GD 367BHS and never used them. I actually see better with my Ford towing mirrors. So, I ended up taking them off and giving them to my bro in law... I kept the backup camera though 😉
Great review! I definitely like the side mirrors for backing up as I usually lose the area behind the RV when the truck is at angle; especially the opposite side.
I bought the furrion 3 camera system about 2 years ago. It only really came in handy a few times. The majority of the time it was annoying. If I get another camera I'll only use the backup camera.
Another great video Chad. We also have the rear and both side cameras on our 36 ft. 5th wheel. Like the others have stated, when I'm backing around a blind corner ,It's great to be able to see what's over on the side of the rig. Hope this helps. Continued safe travels.
Thanks for the feedback! 😊
I have a Visionworks camera from Techno RV. Works great. The camera runs off trailer power that is pre wired . There is a switch on the control panel to turn camera power on/off on my Alliance 5th wheel.
That's awesome that they put a switch in! 👍🏼
I was waiting for another barrel role situation. As always great content.
I love that you added a ChatGPT response in there. 😂 Keep going with the great videos.
I love the side cameras on the front marker lights. Great for backing up when mirrors lose the back of the 5th wheel.
As usual, Chad covers the product and process professionally and in depth. I do have a question... I store my camper indoors between trips. Backing in is tedious. 10 foot wide door, 50 foot long storage area, but like backing into a black hole using the side mirrors. What is the night, or low light capabilities of the Vision Works?
I'm loving the use for towing, and also hoping I can figure out a way to mount another wireless cam on the 3rd brake light (F350) and toggle between the trailer rear and fifth wheel hitch cams to see for hitching and towing... Comments?
Love Chad and Tara, always good advice, and have made my RV life so much easier and more relaxing!
We almost never tow or back at night, so I really can't say. I will say that the thing has a ton of infrared LEDs on it, so I bet it's pretty good. Our new RV has lights on the rear and both sides at the rear to illuminate when in reverse. But, we've never used it.
I like my side cameras since I record all of my camera footage. If anyone ever runs into the side of my 37 foot camper (happened to my friend), the side camera will record that.
I got spoiled really quick to the rear view camera on my DP. The only issue I've got now is that my camera is getting old so acts up and doesn't show a clear image part of the time, but it still allows me to see what's back there, so I couldn't imagine not having it back there.
hey all. i purchased the visionworks from TechnoRV a couple years ago. Very disappointed. The video was very choppy. Called TechnoRV and their service was great. Put me in touch with VW directly and received the antennae extension. It did help a little, but it is still choppy. I am not sure i will get the side marker cameras which was my final goal.
I can see where the side cameras would not really be needed going down the road I'm like you I uses my mirrors to drive with. That being said I can see where the side cameras would be great backing in a tight spot where you can see Tara at all times and you can see the picnic table before it jumps out and hits your trailer
Great video. Love watching your channel. Yall be safe !!
I had the side marker light cameras on my 33’ Reflection. I found the images on my 7” screen with all 3 cameras, too small to be useful. It wasn’t convenient to move camera to camera while backing, I ended up using the rear camera only.
Ordered the “customer install” wired camera when I ordered my 2023 F250. It also has the TPMS. I did not want multiple screens on my dash, the 12” screen in the dash is enough on the dash.
I have the other brand rear camera and have mine tilted down so i can see my spare tire. I can see how close I am to something when backing up and still see cars coming up on me.
Great timing. I’m currently attempting to get the camera that came on our GD to work. It’s suppose to work with the Lippert OneTouch system but so far I can’t get it to work. You asked about the side view cameras. Our GMC came with those which automatically come on with my turn signal. I think they are great but I would not order special just for the trailer. In other words they are a nice to have, not a need to have. Thanks for the great video!
I feel your pain. Our GD factory-wired rear camera was a great selling point, but we, too, have had lots of problems (even with Lippert support calls) to get it going and keep it displayed on our phones via nlue tooth pairing. It should mot be so difficult, Lippert!!
Maybe we will switch it out for the system Chad showed here....THANK YOU, Changing Lanes, for all your great RV content!!!
Maybe it’s just a matter of getting used to having a camera running as I’m driving but i generally find it distracting. Just like having the GPS or maps going all the time. Especially when it’s on birds eye. Mine only runs with my lights on, which I agree is a good setup.
Really like all the information! Thanks.
I drive a 44' Class A diesel pusher towing a jeep or a trailer and love having my rear view and side view cameras but even with 3 cameras and 6 mirrors a little toyota found and hung out in a teeny tiny blind spot....moral of the story is don't get complacent and turn your head before changing lanes.